Background
We aimed to determine the feasibility of measuring resolution rates of
bacterial skin infections in general practice.
Discussion
Clinicians need to be aware that nonhealing is not infrequent,
particularly in indigenous people.
Results
Of 93 recruited participants, 60 (65%) were followed up at 2 and 6
weeks: 50% (30) had boils, 37% (22) had impetigo, 83% (50) were
prescribed antibiotics, and active follow up was suggested for 47%
(28). Thirty percent (18) and 15% (9) of participants had nonhealed
lesions at 2 and 6 weeks respectively. No associations between
nonhealing and any modifiable factors investigated were identified.
However, indigenous patients were more likely to have nonhealed
lesions at 2 weeks and new lesions at 6 weeks.
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